Diabetes data troubling; warning issued for the BVI

President of the BVI Diabetes Association, Jean Vanterpool has called for the adoption of healthier lifestyle practices in the territory, amid troubling global statistics on diabetes.

Diabetes is the condition in which the body does not properly process food for use as energy, leading to sometimes deadly consequences.

In a media release issued today in observance of World Diabetes Day, Vanterpool quoted statistics from the International Diabetes Federation which reveals that there are 199 million people living with diabetes globally.

Diabetes is also listed as the leading cause of death among women in general, with one in 11 adults being diagnosed with the disease.

“These statistics are of great concern to all of us and the BVI Diabetes Association continues to work as an advocate in promoting better management of diabetes and prevention strategies, working along with other agencies, youth organizations, service clubs, and churches among others.”

While not revealing any statistics for the British Virgin Islands, Vanterpool said there is a grave need for the BVI community to seek to adopt healthier lifestyle choices such as eating properly, getting regular exercise and control or reduce their body weight.

The theme for World Diabetes Day this year is Women and Diabetes – Our right to a healthy future.